Europe Reinforces Wind Energy Security Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Europe has re-evaluated its overall security strategy—including how it sources and protects its energy. To reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, the continent is rapidly expanding domestic renewable energy, particularly wind power. However, this transition brings new vulnerabilities, such as physical sabotage and cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure.
Photo: Istock
Within this context, the role of maintenance becomes increasingly vital—not just to ensure operational efficiency, but also to safeguard energy assets against evolving threats.
“Europe is not only building more wind farms—it’s also making sure they’re secure,” says WindEurope. As risks increase, the wind sector is strengthening its collaboration with defence and cybersecurity experts to better protect energy infrastructure.
Infrastructure Under Threat
Attacks on Europe’s energy infrastructure are no longer hypothetical. The sabotage of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline in 2022 served as a stark warning, undermining gas security and causing widespread economic consequences. According to POLITICO, Global Energy Monitor, and TeleGeography, there have been at least six suspected sabotage incidents in the Baltic Sea alone since then, targeting subsea electricity and internet cables—11 of which have been disabled since 2023.
Such cables are critical, linking electricity markets and connecting offshore wind power to the mainland. As reliance on offshore renewables grows, so does the need to fortify these assets.
WindEurope Steps Up
WindEurope is stepping up its role in securing Europe’s energy. Its 2025 Annual Event in Copenhagen saw record participation from NATO, the European Defence Agency (EDA), and national defence bodies—signalling closer cooperation with the military.
“We’re working on practical solutions,” says WindEurope, highlighting the EU-funded SYMBIOSIS project, which aligns offshore wind development with defence needs. The project explores how wind farms, equipped with sensors and radar, could act as “eyes and ears” at sea to boost maritime security.
Securing the Digital Frontier
Modern wind turbines are sophisticated machines filled with electronics, sensors, and control systems—making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. To tackle this, the EU’s updated Network and Information Systems Directive (NIS2) now includes energy among the critical sectors that must comply with stringent cybersecurity standards.
Upcoming policies, such as a dedicated cybersecurity code for the electricity sector, will further bolster Europe’s defences. WindEurope is urging governments to make cybersecurity and data protection mandatory criteria in renewable energy auctions and public procurement.
Laying the Groundwork for Secure Expansion
WindEurope advocates for integrating security measures from the earliest stages of wind farm planning. Their recommendations include:
• Proactive security planning at the project design phase
• Regular dialogue between policymakers, the defence sector, and energy developers
• Rapid response protocols, including a dedicated emergency hotline for offshore wind incidents
• Ongoing training and simulation drills for emergency preparedness
Though enhanced security entails added costs, WindEurope stresses that these remain marginal compared to overall offshore wind investments.
Text: NINA GARLO Photos: windeurope
Maintenance: a strategic priority
As wind power becomes embedded in national defence strategies, maintaining critical infrastructure also becomes increasingly essential. Industrial maintenance ensures the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of both energy and military systems.
Wind Energy Maintenance
Predictive Maintenance: AI and IoT sensors monitor turbine performance in real time, identifying issues before failures occur.
Drone Inspections: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras inspect turbine blades and towers, improving safety and reducing downtime.
Offshore Challenges: Harsh marine conditions demand specialised coatings and regular preventive maintenance to prevent corrosion and weather damage.
Remote Monitoring: Centralised systems enable real-time tracking of turbine health and optimisation of performance.
Defence Maintenance
Radar & Surveillance Systems: Regular calibration and maintenance ensure accuracy and prevent radar disruption.
Military Equipment: Aircraft, ships, and armoured vehicles rely on consistent upkeep to remain combat ready.
Energy Security: Military bases using renewable energy require preventive maintenance to avoid power interruptions, especially in remote or conflict-prone areas.
